NHL Insider Suggests Ducks' Forward Could Be Moved for 'Robust Return'

NHL Network analyst Stu Grimson has weighed in on the ongoing trade speculation surrounding Anaheim Ducks forward Trevor Zegras, suggesting on August 2 that there’s a “good possibility that Zegras moves on” before the start of the 2024-25 season.

Grimson’s comments add fuel to the trade rumors that have persisted throughout the summer, with many wondering whether Zegras is part of the Ducks’ long-term plans or if he'd get moved once again since arriving from the Philadelphia Flyers.

Grimson noted that where there’s smoke, there’s often fire, and he believes the Ducks could receive a “robust return” if they decide to trade the 23-year-old forward.

“I’m not sure if general manager Pat Verbeek sees Zegras as part of the team’s long-term future,” Grimson said.

Zegras is coming off another challenging season for him in 2023-24 when he recorded only 15 points in 31 games missing ample time injured.

The Ducks forward still has two years remaining on his three-year, $17.25 million contract . While his trade value may not be at its peak right now, Grimson believes Zegras, 23, could improve significantly in the upcoming season with a full training camp under his belt. This could give Verbeek more leverage to reassess offers or decide to keep Zegras as part of the team’s core moving forward.

Zegras expressed his desire to remain with the Ducks when talking to Jon Lane of NHL.com at the 2024 NHL draft on July 26 .

“We have a really tight-knit group,” Zegras said. “I really do love being a part of it, so it’s a good fit.”